Authorities in Anambra State have arrested a 45-year-old Chinese national, Mr. Mu Hua Qiang, over alleged involvement in illegal mining activities.

The suspect, a resident of Aguleri, was picked up on Friday during a surveillance operation carried out by the Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (OCHA Brigade) in the Aguleri axis.

Confirming the arrest, the Police Public Relations Officer, Tochukwu Ikenga, said the suspect has been handed over to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Awka, for further investigation.

“His statement has been voluntarily obtained, and he has been placed in lawful custody for further investigation,” Ikenga stated, adding that updates on the case would be shared in due course.

Illegal mining has been a growing concern in Anambra, with authorities intensifying crackdowns on unregulated activities. Experts warn that such operations not only deprive the government of revenue but also pose serious environmental and security risks to host communities.

The state government has repeatedly emphasized its zero-tolerance stance on illegal mining and urged residents to report suspicious activities in their areas.